In a bid to raise awareness about menstrual hygiene management and break the unnecessary taboo and stigma associated with the subject, a programme on 'Menstrual Hygiene and Reproductive Health' was today organized by Chief Education Office Baramulla at Government Higher Secondary School Baramulla, here.
Deputy Commissioner (DC) Baramulla, Dr Syed Sehrish Asgar presided over the function as chief guest while as Chief Education Officer Baramulla, Balbir Singh Raina, Tehsildar Baramulla, Principal of several institutions besides a large number of female students showed their participation.
The awareness programme was organised as a pre-event in connection with the Menstrual Hygiene Day being celebrated annually on May 28 to highlight the importance of good menstrual hygiene management.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Sehrish deliberated on the subject and discussed challenges in our society associated with the Menstrual Hygiene Education in Colleges/ Schools and emphasised upon the essential period-friendly initiatives and sanitation facilities required in the schools and colleges.
The DC reiterated that various initiatives have been taken by district administration to deal with the challenges and said that many vending and incinerator machines have been installed in educational institutions across the district.
With regard to the initiative, the DC said that this project will simultaneously help in spreading awareness on the benefits of adopting hygienic practices and overcoming problems of availability and affordability of sanitary napkins to women in the area.
She further said that this much needed initiative will help serve a key area of women’s health, and therefore will be of immense benefit to the overall community.While briefing with regard to the installation of machines in education institutions, the DC informed that 70% schools have been saturated with the facility and the initiatives are being taken to saturate all schools across the district with Vending and Incinerator machines.
Moreover, the DC urged teachers to make students aware regarding health and hygiene and stressed upon them to guide them properly and sensitize them for the daily social issues.Meanwhile, during the programme, various colourful cultural events were also showcased by the students which got quite applause by the participants.